AFCON: Can Olisa Ndah gatecrash to Jose Peseiro's plans?

 

AFCON: Can Olisa Ndah gatecrash to Jose Peseiro's plans?

By Admin

Not only has Olisa Ndah been solid at the back this season for Orlando Pirates, he has become untouchable since his return from injury. This one could not have come at a better time for the Nigeria international.

Pirates' defensive record has been massively improved thanks to Tapelo Xoki, Thabiso Monyane and Nkosinathi Sibisi, however this season it's Ndah who has shone.

This season, with Ndah in the starting line-up, Pirates have conceded three goals in eight games, and have lost just one of these games, winning four. 

Ndah has not played for Nigeria in over a year, but most Pirates fans will agree his form this season is outstanding, and he has done what he can to prove himself to Super Eagles Manager Jose Peseiro. The latest being the win over TS Galaxy on Saturday night.

Nigeria has failed to replicate its past successes in recent years after reaching lofty heights at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). 

Peseiro has looked to usher in a new era in Nigerian football since assuming the reins of the national team setup by keeping faith with Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi, but Ndah emerging as the face of the rebuild could spice up Super Eagles' quest for glory at the next AFCON.

The 25-year-old defender has regularly proven that no stage is too big for him. A right-footed, ball-playing centerback by nature, Ndah has the skill set that is in high demand across the modern game. The Delta native has become an integral piece to Pirates' setup, making the most of his wide range of passing and vision in the buildup phases. 

Standing at 1.90m, Ndah is an imposing figure at the back and has what it takes to be recalled to the Super Eagles team. 

Back to memory lane, Kenneth Omeruo gatecrashed to the Super Eagles for AFCON 2013 and turned out to be one of the driving forces who helped Nigeria win the tournament. 

AFCON 2024 success is a possibility - and with Olisa Ndah at the heart of defense - Super Eagles can afford to dream.